Taking the Leap
In our lifetimes we are, every once in a while, presented with the opportunity to take a great leap. Whether the leap should be a source of great excitement, or fear, it is sure to open the way for growth.
We at Mama Renew took such a leap this month by attending Renewal Partners’ Social Venture Institute, a 5 day gathering of mission-based entrepreneurs and non-profit managers from around North America.
Truth be told, this was a hard leap to resist. Hosted at Hollyhock by on Cortes Island, BC, the Social Venture Institute included some pretty phenomenal benefits, including an ocean view hot tub, gourmet food fresh from the gardens, an oyster buffet by the beach, dancing and daily yoga. A hard to resist business conference – and a welcome retreat amidst our busy life as mothers and business owners.
As one of the smallest companies invited, we were initially hesitant regarding the applicability to Mama Renew. It is only in the past one or two years that we have truly grown into the role of being a business owner, and truth be told, we finally got around to writing the business plan as part of the application process! What we found was a warm, supportive gathering of entrepreneurs, gathering to share ideas and build community.
Perhaps the most valuable aspect of SVI was the invitation to be honest about our dreams And our challenges. Much like in a Mama Renew group, the learning is always richer when we speak our truth. So much in business (and in motherhood) goes unspoken, as we try to present ourselves in a positive light. We were reminded, again, of the importance of sharing in the whole of our reality, and the learning that comes from being vulnerable.
We are returning home from our “leap” at SVI with a long list of ideas and inspirations, and a community of business and nonprofit visionaries with whom we share in the journey. Feeling thankful, nourished, and wide open to the possibilities.
p.s., if the description of Hollyhock sounded enticing, you can join Mama Renew there for a retreat in May 2010!
